Three rescued after Nelson arson attack

10:14am Saturday 17th May 2008

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A MAN is being treated for smoke inhalation after he and three others were rescued from a blazing house in what firefighters believe to be an arson attack.

Firefighters were called to the end terrace property in Chapel House Road in Nelson shortly before 2am this morning, by which time the ground floor of the house was well alight.

Crews from Nelson and Burnley used ladders to rescue the male occupant who was on the first floor, and also brought out a neighbour who had gone in to try to help.

An elderly couple who live in the adjacent house were also rescued, as the choking smoke spread to their property.

All casualties were taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital where the male occupant remains.

Nelson firefighter Dave Jackson said: "He has been extremely lucky. There were no smoke alarms fitted so he had no early warning and he has been badly affected by smoke inhalation, for which he is being treated in Royal Blackburn Hospital."

Crews from Nelson are still at the property to make sure the fire is out and investigate the incident.

The property has been left gutted by fire, and the neighbouring house has severe smoke damage.